Glenn Phillips and pacer Lockie Ferguson did well for New Zealand, helping their side win the first T20I match of the three-match series against Ireland in Belfast on Monday.
In the first innings, New Zealand posted 173/8 on the board, with Glenn Phillips (69*), James Neesham (29), and Martin Guptill making notable contributions. Medium-pacer Josh Little delivered heavy blows to the Kiwis with the ball, taking 4/35. In a chase of 174, Ireland never looked like they were in contention, as New Zealand bowlers feasted on Irish batters, especially Lockie Ferguson with his 4/14. Curtis Campher (29) and Mark Adair (25) were the only ones who could cross the 20-run mark. The chase of 174 runs started in a nightmarish way for Ireland as they lost their four batters at a score of 37 runs.
New Zealand (173/8) defeated Ireland (142 in 18.2 overs).